The author writes:

'Within the pages of this book you will discover the horse in a new light. This is about the horses of the past, and the people who cared for them, whether bush moke, carriage horse, ridden hack, or racing pony.'

'This was the age of the blacksmith, saddler and coach builder. When you wrote to the paper for advice on horse diseases and injuries. When strange ideas abounded (strangles is not contagious, for example). Where palomino horses were called Creamies, pinto horses were called Piebald or Skewbald, and Quarter Horses were virtually unknown.'

'Here is a glimpse into the old fashioned remedies, cures for vices, and treatment for injuries. Remedies such as goose fat for a cough, and blistering agents for lameness.'

'And stories of the sagacious horse. The mare who told the farmer that her foal had fallen down a well, and the horse who stood by a rock to assist his injured rider to remount. Another who visited the blacksmith on his own when a shoe was lost, only leaving when a new shoe was nailed on.'

'I had fun sifting through these articles to find those of interest. I learned a lot. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I have enjoyed putting it together.'